Balmerino to Newburgh (13 miles)
The last leg is a mammoth expedition and public transport rapidly thins out. The route covers a wide variety of terrain and it rises and falls. Start near Balmerino Abbey and the path leads initially to the shore. We are soon forced to cut inland and follow minor roads and woodland trails. There are no places to buy food along the way so make sure you bring something to eat and drink.
We skirt the lower slopes of a couple of hills and pass through arable farmland. Water is out of sight for most of the route but the final descent towards Newburgh offers spectacular views up the Tay and of Mugdrum Island. We head down to Abbey Road, passing the Lindores Distillery before entering Newburgh. The first ever written reference to Scotch whisky mentioned Lindores Abbey way back in 1494 and the site is thankfully active again. Tours of the distillery are available and there is also a tea/tap room.
The path returns to the shore for the final three quarters of a mile, past the old harbour then into a public park. The finishing line comes into sight and when you pass under the archway you have completed the Fife Coastal Path, one of the great British walking trails. 117 miles around the ancient Kingdom. Congratulations.
It's a short walk back into Newburgh town centre. The Bear Tavern is a basic local boozer but a friendly welcome is assured and there is a real fire buring in the corner with comfortable chairs around it. Now for the tricky business of returning to the start. It is possible, but involves a change of bus (and bus company) and a total journey time of one and a half to two hours. Check Traveline Scotland for your options.
